Mr PALLAS (Werribee—Treasurer, Minister for Economic Development, Minister for Industrial Relations) (09:39):

I want to warmly acknowledge in this house the services of Mark Penaluna, CEO of the Werribee Football Club. Mark has recently been awarded a VFL life membership in recognition of his contributions as a football administrator for over 25 years.

He was previously at the Western Region Football League before coming to the Werribee Football Club in 2003.

Mark has embraced the Werribee community’s connection to their local football club and formed an environment that provides a sense of wellbeing and inclusiveness for all.

Mark’s passion for supporting the local community and encouraging their participation in the club has been the driving force behind the redevelopment of Avalon Airport Oval at Chirnside Park in Werribee.

I have enjoyed working with Mark to see this redevelopment achieved with support from all levels of government, the AFL, VFL and the club itself.

I also worked closely with Mark to see the introduction of the AFL development pathway program, helping VFL clubs like Werribee compete in the new tri-state league.

Mark’s passions follow in the footsteps of his father, who has been a volunteer and coach at the Port Melbourne Football Club for 60 years.

I congratulate Mark and acknowledge this due recognition of his service as a testament to his character, his loyalty to the club and his persistence and commitment to achieving the best for the Werribee Football Club and the local community.